Winnebago County unveiled two new public health vending machines in Oshkosh and Neenah, September 20, 2024. PC: Fox 11 Online
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — New vending machines in Oshkosh and Neenah aim to make a difference in the community’s health.
On Friday, Winnebago County Public Health unveiled two new public health vending machines.
One is located outside of the David W. Albrecht Administration Building at 112 Otter Avenue in Oshkosh and other is located at the Winnebago County Human Services Building at 211 N Street in Neenah.
The vending machines dispense a number of health products for free, including nasal Narcan, Fentanyl test strips, DETERRA drug deactivation kits, gun locks, tick kits and feminine hygiene products.
Winnebago County Public Health reports 47 people died last year from an overdose in the county. They say many people do not seek assistance or services for their substance use due to a fear of being recognized, shamed, judged, and arrested. By providing 24/7 access, the vending machines offer life-saving tools anonymously.
“We’re hoping that this is another tool for people to have in their bucket for overdose prevention and materials. We can’t save lives without having the tools available for people so increasing Narcan saturation is getting into the hands of people that need it the most,” said Maddie Breager, community health strategist at Winnebago County Health Department.
The vending machines can be accessed by using a unique PIN code that’s on the vending machine. You can also access a PIN by calling the Public Health Vending Machine Hotline at (920) 232-3313. The conversation and information provided will remain confidential.
Winnebago County Public Health was awarded $80,000 in grant funds from the Wisconsin Department of Human Services to pay for the vending machines. The grant money comes from the state’s $400 million opioid settlement.
There is also a QR code on the vending machine that welcomes the community to provide feedback on offering different products in the future.
In addition, the artwork featured on the sides of the vending machines were created by members of the community.
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